Winter Tyre Search

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How To Order Winter Tyres

Winter tyres stock is supplied to the UK in autumn each year – so we have supplies from October onwards. We are happy to announce that we have a vast range of winter tyres available,
just use the search tool above filtered to select winter tyres only

Winter Tyres – what are they?

Winter tyres (also known as snow tyres) are specially designed to deal
with colder, wet, icy and snowy conditions. They are not specific to snow and ice – so if you think you don't need them in the UK, think again!

What is different about winter tyres?

Winter tyres are produced from a different mixture of materials than standard/summer tyres. Winter tyres have more natural rubber in them, and this is less affected by cold temperatures. It doesn't harden, and has better flexibility and grip in cold temperatures.

The pattern (or 'tread') on winter tyres has more grooves than standard tyres. This means more snow sticks to the tyre, which actually helps improve grip in snow as snow sticks easily to snow. This helps the tyre attain better grip.

Winter tyres also have a higher number of 'sipes' (little channels or slots) creating many biting edges that lock into icy and snowy roads, thus helping your vehicle brake and accelerate.

Avon Ice Touring ST tyre

Winter tyres - the benefits

There's no doubt that winter tyres are safer than standard tyres in cold weather.

You can read snow tyre reviews, get fitting information and more at our tyre search page.

When should I use winter tyres in the UK?

Winter tyres are of great benefit once the temperature falls below 7 degrees C, which is generally between October and March.

How about using them in summer?

You can also use winter tyres in summer time. If you could only choose one set of tyres for use throughout the year in the UK, winter ones would be the preferred choice.

Do I only need to replace two tyres?

To get the best results from your tyres, you should fit a set of 4 to your vehicle. A combination of winter and summer tyres could result in unpredictable handling.

What difference do winter tyres make to the comfort of my drive?

You will notice little or no difference to the comfort of your drive – today's winter tyres give just as comfortable a ride as standard tyres, and are equally quiet.

Why is the speed rating not the same as my usual tyres?

Summer tyres have higher speed ratings than winter tyres, but rest assured this won't have an impact on your driving as even an H rate winter tyre can achieve speeds over 130mph.

Does it make any difference if my car has traction control?

Traction control limits your vehicle's acceleration to the traction levels your tyres can achieve – but it doesn't physically improve the tyre's traction.

Do I need winter tyres if my vehicle has ABS?

ABS (anti lock braking) restricts your vehicle's braking to the traction the tyres can achieve, but it does not physically improve the grip of your tyres, unlike winter tyres.

Is it true that front wheel drive cars drive better in snowy conditions?

This is true as a FW drive vehicle has most of its weight (about 60%) resting on its front wheels. While this is helpful when accelerating it does not much improve braking.
The distribution of weight in a FW drive vehicle is also not ideal for handling and corners. However, winter tyres can noticeably improve performance.

Tyres' Air Pressure in Winter

Your vehicle is held up not by its tyres, but by the air in them, so maintaining the right level of air pressure is crucial for your car's braking and handling. The air pressure in your tyres
must be monitored and maintained – it changes in different weather conditions and due to naturally escaping air, and should be adjusted to suit your vehicle's load.

As air contracts in cooler winter conditions, you must make sure to monitor your tyres' pressure a minimum of once a month. The pressure in your tyre will fall by c. 1 psi for every 10 degrees F
that the air temperature falls by.

Make sure you check the tyre pressure when the tyres are cold – i.e. when they are the same as the outdoor air temperature. If your vehicle is parked in an indoor garage, the tyres 'lose'
air pressure as you leave it for colder outdoor temperatures.

You should also double check your tyres all have valve caps, and replace them with new ones if not. Moisture from the air can freeze in the valve, expanding it and thus letting air escape.

Winter Tyres and Car Insurance

In recent years some insurance bodies have actually put up premiums on vehicles with winter tyres as they classed them as a modification – despite the fact they actually improve safety. However,
much work has been done to improve this misunderstanding by insurance companies. The majority of insurers do not now need to be told that you've fitted winter tyres as long as they are 'correct
for the vehicle and professionally fitted.' Best practice is to double check with your own insurance company beforehand. All tyres purchased from National Tyres and Autocare will be
professionally fitted by our technicians.

Winter Tyres Around the World

In many European countries, it is standard for drivers to own both a summer and a winter set of tyres, and to switch between the two in autumn and spring.

Until now in the UK, most cars come fitted with standard/summer tyres. However, following the severe winters that the country has suffered from over the last two years, drivers are now beginning
to see the advantages of winter tyres and to create more of a demand for them. Hundreds of thousands of drivers in Europe are very aware of the benefits of winter tyres, and that number is set
to grow as the UK adds to demand.

Are snow tyres more expensive?

Although you have to spend more money when you buy a set of winter tyres, while these ones are fitted on your vehicle, your standard tyres will not be wearing down (as they will be sitting in
your garage). As you will have 2 sets of tyres in circulation, each set will last for a longer time. Also, your investment in winter weather tyres don't have to break the bank. There are
several cheap winter tyres available for most makes and models.

What do I do with my standard tyres when I've to winter ones on?

National Tyres will give you back your standard tyres for you to keep in a dry, cool garage or shed. They should be kept out of direct sunlight, so shield with an old rug or sheet if they
close to a window.

Stock Levels

Last year, supply of winter tyres did not meet demand as there was a huge rush of customers when the bad weather hit the UK. National's stock arrives in Oct-Nov each year, so we'd advise you
to place your order early to avoid disappointment.

Winter Tyres/Other Countries

If you are driving abroad, make sure you check what laws apply regarding winter tyres. Some countries stipulate by law that you must use winter tyres so make sure you check with your insurance
company or the AA.

Cold Weather Driving Advice

Make sure you drive safe this winter by checking these simple tips:

Buy a set of four winter tyres if you can.

Ensure your tyre tread (whether summer or winter tyres) is as good as possible, i.e. deep. This is crucial to your car's traction and braking performance.

Make sure you can see clearly. Clean off ALL snow and ice from your car windscreen and all windows before driving.

Ensure your car lights are all functioning properly, and clean off any dirt/snow.

Remove any snow from the car's roof before driving so it does not slip down and obscure your windscreen. Snow on your roof can also be a hazard to other drivers.

Drive more slowly! Wet and slippery roads take longer to stop on, so keep your speed in check.

Maintain a reasonable distance between you and the car ahead on the road.

Prepare for the worst – pack your car with a warm coat and clothes, deicer, an ice scraper and a warning triangle.

You should NOT drive in severe weather unless it's an absolute emergency. If so, ensure you have warm blankets/clothes, a hot beverage and food with you. Also pack a spade just in case you need it.

Drive with care, using gentle manoeuvres. Don't accelerate or brake sharply. Use the highest gear you can as this aids grip and helps avoid wheel spin. To drop your speed, slow down gently using the gears, don't brake suddenly. If your vehicle gets stuck on ice, put an old rug or sheet of cardboard under the wheels to help them grip. Once you get a grip, don't stop moving until you are clear of the icy patch.

For More Advice on Winter Tyres visit TyreSafe

TyreSafe, one of the UK's leading tyre safety organisations, has many informative articles and films on the benefits of winter tyres.
Visit www.tyresafe.org to see the benefits for yourself.

Two exact BMW's go head to head with Summer and Winter Tyre tests. Judge for yourself which you think is more appropriate for the weather. Did this change your thinking about winter tyres?